you can keep tabs on the fiscal cliff talks. 24/7 by logging on our web site. >>> well it started out as a winter day of fun in the snow and ice. then the unthinkable happened. cbs reporter carter evans on the rescue that prevented tragedy. >> reporter: a rare christmas experience in the mountains above los angeles. fresh snow and ice for people who rarely see it. despite warning signs. >> look at that crack. is that a crack? >> few seemed concerned until -- >> oh! [screaming] >> we saw his arms going. someone said he can not swim. then it turned into panic. >> reporter: michelle and mickey were there with a camera. at first, all they could do was watch in horror as a man, who rushed to help -- oh. >> fell through the ice. then, another. six would-be rescuers in all were now in the icy waters. >> it was hard to watch. it was. we saw that guy go under three times and the third time we did not think he was coming back up. >> call 911. right now. >> the victims, clammerred for intertubed to stay afloat. from the shore, onlookers including the hermans tried toes to a lifeline. after sever